Photographer's Note

History of the photo

I was in Lhasa with a small group and decided to go alone to watch the Potala Palace, as well as the square in front of it, illuminated at night
I was staying in a hotel located in a pedestrian street,Yutuo Road, but I have seen a wide avenue not far from it that I supposed, was the way to arrive at the Potala Palace
So when it was night I walked along Yutuo, taking photos at the artistic and colorful lights along the street, once arrived at the intersection of Street and Avenue I stopped and began ( the way beggars do) to ask at young people (supposed to know some English),

Do you speak English?
Do you speak English?
Do you speak English?

Finally a couple stopped and asked me what I needed
I told them that I wanted a rickshaw to take me to the Potala Palace and wait for me while I stayed there and in the square and then return at this same place and also to arrange the price
No need to say that I did it because I noticed people of rickshaw only spoke Tibetan or Chinese
They agree and call a rickshaw told he what I wanted and there I went, alone with few local money and the camera in a backpack
We were some time along the avenue and then turned left and… a marvel occurred
At the back of the avenue full illuminated was the Potala Palace and music and dancing lights come from the fountain situated in front of the Potala, the all made a great impact of incredible beauty
I must have said some exclamation because the boy of the rickshaw turned his head and smile to me, he was clever , he understood perfectly well what I wanted to do and by signs, when he drop me in front of the Potala, explained where he will wait for me
I went where I saw people taking photos, walk a little enjoying the great view, took a last photo (the one I am posting) and then all of a sudden there was silent and the lights turned off, I took another photo at the now dark Palace (only a second before) posted in the WS and quit the place

Conclusion and tip
A pity must have gone earlier with time to enjoy the music of the fountain witch water change color and forms at the music’ rhyme, the square and the views of the Palace
So, once in Lhasa, keep it in your mind

Potala Palace

Situated on the Red Hill of central Lhasa, Potala Palace is the highest ancient palace in the world, reaching 3,767.19m (12,359.55ft) at the topmost point.
Potala Palace is composed of 2 parts, the Red Palace as the center and the White Palace as two wings.

The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is the highest part in central Potala Palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It was painted to red to represent stateliness and power.

The White Palace or Potrang Karpo once served as the office building of Tibet local government makes up the living quarters of Dalai Lama. The wall of the palace was painted to white to convey peace and quiet.

Travel Tips:
1. The travel route of Potala Palace is set strictly. Tourists all have to enter from the east main entrance.
2. The travel time is limited in 1 to 1.5 hours.
3. Note that expect the toilet at the right side of the White Palace Square, there is no rest room during the route of the rest time. The water closet at the back gate of the White Palace is said to be distinctive and worth a try.
4. Watch your steps due to the high altitude. Bring along an overcoat as it is a bit cold and damp in the hall.

Notice:
1. Any kind of liquid is not allowed in Potala Palace, including beverages and mineral water, which yet can be purchase at a cost of CNY10 for one bottle at the hill top
2. Oxygen Bag is prohibited.
3. Be aware of the taboos of Tibetan Buddhism during the visit.
Don't wear a hat or sunglasses; don't step on the doorsill; don't smoke in the halls; don't take photos in the palace although it is allowed outside the palace

You're capturing well this Potala Palace with illumination by a good angle and excellent tone/clarity, so it's interesting and impressive to see the palace with good design and white/brown wall. This royal palace that rises high over heights in darkness is increasing charm. And, good useful note, too. Thanks for sharing.
Have a nice week.

Hello Maria,
this photo is very beautiful, majestic and magical. You have composed it marvellously and with exquisite sharpness and clarity, placing the impressive luminous palace diagonally in the dark frame. The contrasts are amazing. Its many windows give it a graphical quality and make it very intriguing. Thank you and congratulations for the wonderful picture and the fascinating notes with which you accompany it!
All the best,
Ourania

Hola Maria,
splendid the night view of the Potala Palace,with the details creating from the great clarity to are superb.
I like the excellent light and colour management with the beauty of the Palace to be unique.

Sorry for my late reaction.
Very intersting note, first of all.
Another impressive and attractive night shot!
Fantastic and tasetful sharp and clear image as usual.
Slow shutter speed makes good contribution.
Thanks for your sharing with nice job and have a good day!

Hi Maria
A fascinating palace, amazing structures so well captured with your lovely viewpoint, colours & image clarity. Above all I love the contrasting colors to the night sky makes this standout so stunningly. Well cropped and framing as well, Excellent night capture with good infor notes, Congrats, TFS
Best regards

Hola Maria
An excellent picture of Potala palace...quite unique in my eyes. Contrast that with the non-lit up image you posted in the WS.... There's a huge difference! The pano format fits this well. Fine work & a great note ...so very informative too!
Best Regards
Angshu

Hi maria, Interesting story from Lhasa. I visited this palace on my own (it means, with my husband and two friends). It was quite complicated to buy the tickets, I used for it three days but finally succeeded. before my trip to China I learned some Chinese and usually had no trouble with language. Well, in Lhasa they spoke Tibetan, but it was OK. Fantastic idea to go to Potala at night.
Warm regrads

I think this is the first night shot that I have seen of the Patola Palace. The golden wall and white really stands out well against the dark sky. It must be nice to be there by yourself and not a large group. It is nicer to enjoy it without all the distraction from other. I wish I would have the opportunity to return one day.

Hi Maria
This mighty palace has always been on my bucket list, and even more so now to see your great capture. This is the first time I have ever seen a night shot of it, and I love how well illuminated it is. I love your excellent note too.
All the best
Noel